Rating SDSU's depth chart: Defense

The depth chart San Diego State released on Tuesday is by no means final. But it's a good indication of 1) how things are progressing, 2) where the coaches feel the need to shock some people into action as the Aztecs wind up camp with the scrimmage this Saturday. Here's a breakdown on how much you should worry about each position on a scale from 1 to 10. A "10" means the position is ironclad, while a "1" means you should freak out as much as you did about the kicking in 2013.

Sean M. Haffey

2

Defensive End – Worry Meter: 8

In Jon Sanchez and Dontrell Onuoha, the Aztecs have two veteran ends who are a size upgrade from last year. They also improved on depth. Dakota Turner has speed and tenacity, while a fully healthy Sam Meredith should make a smooth transition from tackle. Unit needs to up its sack count.

Howard Lipin

3

Defensive Tackle – Worry Meter: 5

Sophomore Alex Barrett did wonders during his midseason move to tackle in 2013 and finished second on team in sacks. But the depth is questionable. Kenny Galea’I is untested, Christian Heyward hasn’t been cleared for contact, and Sergio Phillips is also unproven.

Earnie Grafton

4

Middle Linebacker – Worry Meter: 4

Derek Largent isn’t a worry, but the Aztecs are thin enough at the OLB positions that he would be better served playing out there. The Aztecs need Josh Gavert (shin) to get back in the lineup and prove that he can play the way he did in 2013. At the moment, he’s their best bet because Jake Fely (neck) will likely miss half the season.

Earnie Grafton

5

Outside Linebacker – Worry Meter: 5

The Aztecs are thin at linebacker right now. Fred Melifonwu is penciled as a starting OLB, and he’s a tremendous physical specimen but still also pretty raw. Behind him, Devante Davis is new to the system, having just joined the team this summer. Calvin Munson is solid on the other side, as is Cody Galea. You can stop worrying when Derek Largent moves back here.

K.C. Alfred

6

Cornerback – Worry Meter: 10

This might be the best defensive unit in terms of quality and depth. J.J. Whittaker is making a case for All-MWC first team honors, Damontae Kazee (4 FF, 3 TFL) will only get better in his second year, and Billy Vaughn Jr. are Kalan Montgomery are quality backups who will ensure little dropoff.

Earnie Grafton

7

Aztec Safety – Worry Meter: 3

Na’Im McGee is the front runner, but he’s still learning the complicated Aztec position. The coaches don’t seem sold on sophomore Brandon Porter either, and behind them is true freshman Fred Trevillion. Nat Berhe’s presence will be missed this year.

Earnie Grafton

8

Warrior Safety – Worry Meter: 2

The Aztecs have given up some long passes in practice recently, and Rocky Long says the safeties have made multiple assignment errors. Stan Sedberry’s (concussion) return might help from the experience standpoint, but SDSU is still young and green at safety, with Malik Smith and Trey Lomax retaining a tenuous hold on the starting jobs. Can Pierre Romain step up in his new position?